Camden, New Jersey

Camden History

Historical archives documenting the people, streets, and stories of Camden, New Jersey.

Welcome to Camden History, unsurprisingly about Camden, New Jersey, a city steeped in history and brimming with stories that have left an indelible mark on the tapestry of America's past. Situated on the banks of the Delaware River, Camden has a rich and complex history that spans centuries. From its indigenous Lenape inhabitants to the bustling industrial hub of the 19th and 20th centuries, and from its pivotal role in the Underground Railroad to its contributions to the birth of the recording industry, Camden has played a significant part in shaping the nation's narrative.

Camden's origins can be traced back to the early 17th century when European settlers first arrived in the region. Over time, it evolved from a quaint village into a thriving industrial center, earning it the nickname "The City Invincible" in the late 19th century. The city's industries, including shipbuilding, manufacturing, and commerce, contributed to its growth and prosperity.

But Camden's history is not just one of industry and commerce; it's also a story of resilience, community, and cultural diversity. Throughout its past, the city has been home to waves of immigrants, each adding their unique traditions and flavors to the city's vibrant cultural mosaic.

Join us on a journey through time as we explore the people, places, and events that have shaped Camden's captivating history. From the waterfront to the neighborhoods, from famous figures to everyday citizens, we invite you to discover the hidden gems and untold tales that make Camden a city worth exploring and celebrating.

Remnants of Camden's history are all around you if you know where to look!

Recently added — page 20

Abraham Lincoln James - 1932-11-23
People

Abraham Lincoln James

Abraham Lincoln James, commonly known as A. L. James or A. Lincoln James, was a career officer with the Camden Police Department, serving for 40 years.

·2 min read
Historical Accounts

Remembering Doctor Paul Cohen

I've been meaning to ask you for quite awhile if you know of, or are related to our family Doctor from the 50's and 60's. His name was Paul Cohen and he was at 5th and State Streets .

·1 min read
People

Paul Cohen

Dr. Paul Cohen was born in Moorestown, NJ, in 1903. He graduated from Moorestown High School in 1922, the University of Pennsylvania in 1926, and the University of Switzerland Medical School in 1934.

·1 min read
People

Dillwyn P. Pancoast

Dr. Dillwyn Parrish Pancoast was born on March 11, 1836, in Mullica Hill, Harrison Township, NJ, to Israel Pancoast, a farmer, and his wife, Sarah Ann Lippincott.

·2 min read
Streets

Linden Street

Linden Street runs east from the Delaware River to North 12th Street in Camden; large portions were demolished for the Benjamin Franklin Bridge, Rutgers University and the toll plaza.

·10 min read
James McDade
People

James McDade

James McDade was born in Pennsylvania in September 1860 and had moved to Camden by 1884. His wife, Emma Ferkler, was seven years older than him.

·2 min read
Row of brick houses along a street with parked cars, utility poles and a bridge span in the distance.
Streets

Point Street

Point Street in North Camden was laid out in 1804 as Cooper's Point Road, giving access along the riverbank to sawmills, planing mills and shipyards; its current name comes from that road.

·15 min read
Camden Drive-In
Entertainment

The First Drive-In Theater

The First Drive-In Theater: The Story of Its Creation and the Woman Behind It More than 100 years ago, an article appeared on the last page of the Courier-Post , announcing the construction of a revolutionary outdoor movie venue — the Drive-In Theater.

·3 min read
Campbell Soup Employment Office - ca 1960
Businesses

The Campbell Soup Company

The Campbell Soup Company has been a cornerstone of Camden, New Jersey's history since its founding in 1869 by Joseph Campbell and Abraham Anderson.

·3 min read
Streets

Camac Street

Camac Street, often confused with Gant Street, was a short Camden, New Jersey street running between the Delaware River and South 2nd Street below Kaighn Avenue.

·1 min read
Columbia Avenue, 1885 Sanborn Map
Streets

Columbia Avenue

Columbia Avenue was a short street that ran east from North 5th Street between Arch and Market Streets, terminating at the George Genge School. It was razed in the 1930s to make space for Roosevelt Plaza park.

·2 min read
1946 map of Camden showing Ray Street running north from Pearl Street, west of Borton Street
Streets

Ray Street

Ray Street is a one-block street running north from Pearl Street to Elm Street, between Borton Street and North 9th Street. It first appeared in city directories in 1890 and is named for Mrs. "Ray" Cox, wife of developer Charles W. Cox.

·1 min read